PICASSO Solicitation: NNH18ZDA001N-PICASSO

NOTICE: Proposals to this program will be taken by a two-step process in which the Notice of Intent is replaced by a required Step-1 proposal submitted by an organization Authorized Organizational Representative. See Section 2, of C.1 Planetary Science Research Program Overview for the most recent guidance on how to submit a Step-1 and Step-2 proposal. Proposals to develop instruments that can function in icy moon environments are particularly encouraged. See Section 1 for more details. Proposals shall include an entry Summary Chart submitted as a separately uploaded appendix to the Step-2 proposal. See Section 2.1 for more details. Progress reports are due Semi-Annually. See Section 2.4 for more details.

The Planetary Instrument Concepts for the Advancement of Solar System Observations (PICASSO) Program supports the development of spacecraft-based instrument systems that show promise for use in future planetary missions. The goal of the program is to conduct planetary and astrobiology science instrument feasibility studies, concept formation, proof of concept instruments, and advanced component technology development (technology readiness levels (TRL) 1 – 3) to the point where they may be proposed in response to the Maturation of Instruments for Solar System Exploration (MatISSE) Program.

The PICASSO program seeks proposals to develop new proof-of-concept instruments or instrument components, including sampling technologies, that enable new science by significantly improving instrument measurement capabilities for planetary science missions (such as Discovery, New Frontiers, Mars Exploration, and other planetary programs, including those flown on commercial spacecraft). The objective of the program is to develop low TRL instruments for use in planetary science missions to the point where they may be proposed in response to the Maturation of Instruments for Solar System Exploration (MatISSE) Program, C.13 of ROSES. As such, the entry technology readiness level (TRL) that PICASSO supports is 1-3. Proposals where the entry TRL is 4 or higher are not appropriate for the PICASSO, but should be submitted to program element C.13. MatISSE.